From the WWE Rumor Mill: Is a top SmackDown authority figure turning heel?
What's the story?
According to a report from the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, either Shane McMahon or Daniel Bryan could be set for a heel turn.
In case you didn't know...
During the most recent episode of Monday Night Raw, Shane McMahon drew first blood by laying siege to the flagship show, effectively establishing himself as the de-facto heel for Survivor Series.
There also appeared to be some underlying tension between the Prodigal Son and Daniel Bryan — who had no knowledge of McMahon's plan to attack Monday Night Raw — during the most recent episode of SmackDown Live.
While he was clearly the babyface during his feud with Kevin Owens, Shane McMahon displayed no empathy when Sami Zayn complained about the false promises he had been made in the "land of opportunity." While none of this is substantive evidence of a heel turn in progress, these subtle hints could always lead to something. Lest we forget, Shane McMahon has portrayed a villain for the majority of his WWE career.
The heart of the matter
Given his actions on the most recent episode of Monday Night Raw, Shane McMahon is the more likely of the two turn heel. While Bryan's frustrations with McMahon in recent weeks could be used as fuel for a heel turn, the former ROH World Champion is so popular among the fans that he cannot portray anything other than a babyface.
Daniel Bryan's contract with WWE also reportedly expires in September of 2018. As of this writing, there is no guarantee that he will renew his deal.
What's next?
SmackDown will do battle with Monday Night Raw at Survivor Series on November 19, 2017. Reports suggest that Shane McMahon and Kurt Angle will both be involved in the Men's 5-on-5 Elimination match.
Author's take
Both Shane McMahon and Daniel Bryan are very popular performers, and it is unlikely that either of them will turn heel. When you also consider that Bryan may leave WWE in the not too distant future, it is difficult to put any stock into this rumour.
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